Ian Roberts, the former superintendent of the Des Moines Public Schools district, was sentenced Friday to two years in federal prison after pleading guilty to charges of falsely claiming to be a U.S. citizen and illegally possessing a firearm.

Roberts had served as superintendent of Iowa's largest school district, which serves more than 30,000 students, beginning in 2023. The district is one of the state's most significant educational systems.

During his sentencing hearing, Roberts expressed remorse for his actions. "I regret what I've done every single day," he told the federal court before receiving his sentence.

The charges involved Roberts making false claims about his U.S. citizenship status and illegally possessing a firearm. Both offenses are federal crimes that carry significant penalties.

The case represents a significant fall from grace for an educator who had reached the top position in one of Iowa's most prominent school districts. Roberts' leadership role gave him oversight of educational programs and policies affecting tens of thousands of students and their families.